Thousands of spectators turned out for an elite road race cycling competition over the weekend.

Onlookers marvelled at those taking part as the East Cleveland Classic took place in Saltburn on Sunday (April 14).

While enjoying the races, residents were also entertained by street performers, music and artwork made by villagers and shops.

The Northern Echo: The East Cleveland Classic cycle race. From left, 2nd placed Tim Shoreman, winner Rowan Baker and

The men’s and women’s races saw Rowan Baker and Cat Ferguson scoop the top prizes respectively.

Ms Ferguson, 17, who is being tipped for the very top of the sport, and won despite a collision on the final climb at Saltburn, said she thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

She said: “The views are so beautiful and there are so many supportive spectators…it’s a lovely experience being here.”

The Northern Echo: Cat Ferguson wins the East Cleveland Classic women's road race Credit: STUART BOULTON

Andy Langford, race director, said: "It is good to be able to bring elite racing to the area.”

A total of 63 racers took part in the men’s race with Tim Shoreman and James McKay taking second and third.

Forty cyclists took part in the inaugural women’s race with Cat Ferguson, Eilidh Shaw and Imogen Wolff making up the top three spots.

 The race started and finished in Saltburn. It also passed through Guisborough, Skelton, Charltons, Boosbeck, Lingdale and Brotton. 

The Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTON

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The women raced four laps totalling 68 miles and the men six laps totalling 100 miles.

Cllr Carrie Richardson, Deputy Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “This is one of the biggest events of the calendar and is not only fun for all the family, but a major sporting occasion.”

The East Cleveland Classic was funded by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and the Tees Valley Combined Authority. It was also supported by the Tees Valley Community Foundation which has funded the activities.

Here are some more pictures from the event:

The Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: Rowan Baker wins the East Cleveland Classic open road race Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTONThe Northern Echo: East Cleveland Classic in Saltburn Credit: STUART BOULTON